Experiencing a tumultuous period personally, I threw myself into my studies in Autumn 2019, and wound up with a quarter's worth of some of my favorite ever classes at UW. I found immense joy in serving as a Peer Educator and helping incoming Honors students with their transitions into college. I adored my short stories class, an excellent affirmation that I am on the right track with my chosen major, even participating in a revision group with fellow students outside of class. I furthered my knowledge of writing with my Teaching Writing class, and challenged myself as one of the youngest in a room full of upperclassmen and graduate students. Finally, my Leadership and Democracy Honors class both allowed me to think deeply about my place within the education system and society at large, and motivated me to participate in civic engagement, including writing an op-ed editorial for the Seattle Times. I also was accepted as an intern at Seattle Arts and Lectures, and assisted in teaching creative writing in elementary classrooms around the city. In a period of feeling tremulous in my personal life, I was able to find affirmation and confidence in my academic and professional successes.